Can clear lenses really block 98% blue light?
Many brands claim extremely high blocking percentages while offering clear lenses. Here's how to separate scientific reality from marketing.
Many eyewear brands claim extremely high blue light blocking percentages while still offering clear lenses. Understanding how blue light filtering actually works helps separate scientific reality from marketing simplification.
Is it scientifically possible?
Partially — but the claim often depends on how the measurement is made. Blue light exists approximately between 400–495 nm. Blocking very high percentages across this entire range usually affects lens clarity and colour perception. This is why strong blue-blocking lenses are typically yellow, amber, orange or red tinted.
Why truly clear lenses cannot fully block all blue light
Blue light is part of the visible spectrum and contributes to natural colour balance and transparency. If a lens blocks too much of the blue spectrum, it usually develops visible tinting and alters colour perception. Completely clear lenses cannot realistically block almost all blue light across the full spectrum while maintaining fully natural transparency.
How some companies claim 98% blocking
Many companies measure only a very narrow wavelength band instead of the complete 400–495 nm blue light spectrum. A lens may block a very high percentage at one specific wavelength while allowing large portions of the remaining blue spectrum to pass through. Some lenses also use reflective coatings that reduce portions of short-wavelength blue-violet light while still appearing mostly clear.
What is scientifically realistic for clear lenses?
Why maximum blocking is not always better
Humans biologically require daytime blue light. It supports wakefulness, focus, mood regulation, cognitive performance and circadian synchronisation. The goal of modern vision technology is not simply maximum blocking, but intelligent spectral management based on biological needs and time of exposure.
Instead of completely blocking daytime blue light, MANTIS lenses selectively manage excessive high-energy blue-violet digital exposure while preserving healthy daytime visual and biological function.
Find the lens that fits your day
Mantis lenses are tuned to how — and when — you use screens. Sun for the day, Moon for the night.